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The definition of assault rifle is an intermediate range rifle capable of full and semi auto fire. The idea was invented by the Germans at the end of WW2 as a cross between a battle rifle and a submachinegun.
Speaking of the MP43... It fired a less powerful cartridge and had a lighter recoil as a result. However, Hitler, still thinking that troops needed a weapon capable of firing 2000 yards, ordered that production of the weapon not start. The German arms minister, however, knew the need of the new weapon, and changed the name to "Machine Pistol", which is what the Germans called their submachine guns like the US Thompson .45 cal. The trick worked and the weapon went into production at three factories and German troops all over the Eastern Front were clamouring for the new weapon. The whole affair was blown when a few divisional commanders asked Hitler at a conference when they would get the new weapon. Hitler was furious and ordered an investigation. Luckily for the men that had disobeyed the Fuehrer, the results of the investigation were so encouraging about the new weapon that Hitler changed his mind and announced that henceforward the weapon would be called "Sturmgewehr" or Assault Rifle. This was the world's first ever assault rifle." from diggerofhistory web site
A battle rifle utilizes a full power rifle cartridge capable of volley fire at over 1000 yards. A battle rifle does not need to be an auto to be called this.
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I have Post Tree Stand Mirage Disorder.
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